A primary care perspective of posttraumatic stress disorder for the Department of Veterans Affairs

Sriram Ramaswamy, Vishal Madaan, Faiz Qadri, Christopher J. Heaney, Terry C. North, Prasad R. Padala, Syed P. Sattar, Frederick Petty

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

17 Scopus citations

Abstract

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a major mental disorder associated with significant morbidity, psychosocial impairment, and disability. The diagnosis of PTSD can be missed in a primary care setting, as patients frequently present with somatic complaints or depression and are often reluctant to discuss their traumatic experiences. As recent studies of veterans returning from the Gulf War and the Iraqi War suggest high rates of PTSD, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Hospitals are gearing up to face this challenge. It is important to screen these veterans for symptoms of PTSD and make an appropriate referral if required. In this article, we attempt to review PTSD with a special focus on the VA population. In addition to discussing the epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment options for PTSD, we also suggest screening questions for both combat-related and military sexual trauma-related PTSD.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)180-187
Number of pages8
JournalPrimary Care Companion to the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry
Volume7
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - 2005

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Psychiatry and Mental health

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